The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has received a paramount monarch in Ondo State, the Oluoke of Okeigbo, Oba Akintoye Adeoye, at the historic Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife, as the newly installed monarch paid a courtesy visit to seek ancestral blessings ahead of his forthcoming coronation.
In a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, said Oba Adeoye, was accompanied by his wife, Olori Adeola Akintoye, and a delegation of traditional chiefs from Okeigbo.
Speaking during the visit, the Oluoke expressed deep appreciation to the Ooni for his unwavering support and fatherly guidance throughout his ascension to the throne.
He disclosed that he officially received his staff of office in November 2025, noting that the process leading to his emergence was made seamless through the Ooni’s influence and encouragement.
“I am always delighted to come to this palace. You have continued to uphold the dignity of traditional institutions and promote our culture. I have just ascended the throne, having received my staff of office in November 2025. I am here to thank you for your support in ensuring my journey to the throne was smooth,” he said.
The monarch further announced that his coronation ceremony has been scheduled for April 25, 2026, formally inviting the Ooni to grace the occasion as the Father of the Day.
“I have come to seek your ancestral blessings and to personally invite you to my coronation. Your presence will be a great honour and will further strengthen our traditional institutions,” he added.
Also speaking, the Lowa Adimula, Oba Ademola Adeyeye urged the Oluoke to remain steadfast in promoting Yoruba culture and traditions, emphasizing that traditional rulers play a vital role in preserving heritage and fostering unity among their people.
He advised the monarch to lead with humility, wisdom, and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that the success of his reign would depend largely on his ability to maintain peace and ensure the welfare of his subjects.
In a similar vein, the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura counseled the Oluoke to govern with justice and fairness, reminding him of the spiritual and historical significance of Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba race.
He urged the monarch to remain connected to his roots and to uphold integrity and accountability in the discharge of his duties, noting that true leadership is measured by the trust and confidence of the people.
Responding, the Ooni congratulated Oba Akintoye Adeoye on his ascension and commended his humility and commitment to service.
He urged the monarch to focus on the development of Okeigbo, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership that brings all stakeholders together.
The Ooni further advised him to draw his people closer, listen attentively to their concerns, and foster unity and peaceful coexistence within his domain, noting that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of harmony.
In a deeply symbolic moment during the visit, the Ooni offered spiritual prayers and blessings for the Oluoke, invoking divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for a successful and impactful reign. He prayed for peace, prosperity, and stability in Okeigbo, asking that the monarch’s rule be marked by progress and enduring legacy.
Reaffirming his support for traditional institutions across Yorubaland, the Ooni stressed the importance of collaboration among monarchs in preserving culture and driving socio-economic progress.